Bowlen stepped down from operating the Broncos in 2014 to focus on his health. Unfortunately, Bowlen lost his battle with Alzheimer’s on Thursday evening.

Chiefs Chairman and CEO Clark Hunt issued a heartfelt statement following the announcement of the death of Bowlen.

“My family and I are saddened by the loss of Pat Bowlen, and our hearts are with the Bowlen family and the entire Denver Broncos organization during this time,” Hunt wrote. “A tremendous competitor, Pat built a culture of success in Denver, and his leadership turned the Broncos into one of the model franchises in the National Football League. As Chairman of the Broadcast Committee, Pat helped expand the audience for America’s Game and prepare our league for a changing media landscape. Beyond the strong passion he had for his football team, he cared deeply about his community, and left an indelible mark on his beloved city of Denver. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Annabel, his children and the entire Broncos family.”

Bowlen is set to be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2019.

The Chiefs and Broncos have a storied rivalry, but today it’s time to put the rivalry aside and celebrate the life of one of the great owners in the NFL. Thank you, Mr. Bowlen for your contributions, and for helping to make the NFL what it is today.

Email

Like this article?

Sign up for the Chiefs Wire email newsletter to get our top stories in your inbox every morning

An error has occured

Please re-enter your email address.

Thanks for signing up!

You'll now receive the top Chiefs Wire stories each day directly in your inbox.